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Constance Brown Obituary
COATESVILLE — Constance Ann (Chowka) Brown, 53, of Coatesville, entered heavenly rest Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016.
She was born Oct. 22, 1962, a daughter of Sofia (Terzopoulos) Chowka, of Shamokin, and the late John J. Chowka.
She attended the former Transfiguration Ukrainian Catholic School in Shamokin, and was a 1980 graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes High School in Coal Township. She was also a graduate of the former Pottsville Hospital School of Nursing. She continued her professional education and attained her Bachelor of Science in nursing from Kutztown University, and her Master of Science in nursing from West Chester University.
Connie was employed as a registered nurse in various positions throughout her career. Most recently, she was employed at Saint John Vianney Center, in Downingtown, as a nursing supervisor. She was a very dedicated and caring nurse, and was loved by her patients and her coworkers.
She had a strong faith in God and attended church regularly. While living in this area, she was a member of Transfiguration Ukrainian Catholic Church and the St. Anna Society.
Connie was a loving woman with a kind heart. She always thought of others first and loved her family dearly. She never missed a day without calling her mother to talk.
She loved animals, especially her rescue dogs that she cared for over the years. She enjoyed bike riding on country roads in Lancaster with her fiancé. Being near the horses, cows and other farm animals gave her great joy. She also enjoyed traveling, especially to Cape May, New Jersey.
Survivors, in addition to her mother, Sofia, include six sisters, Joanna Wolfe and her husband, Bill, of Elysburg, Melanie Henricks, of Chester Springs, Donna Rumberger and her husband, Bill, of Elysburg, Andrea Paglione, of Collegeville, her loving twin sister, Mary Chowka, of Shamokin, and Juliet Szyprowski, of West Chester; a brother, Stephen Chowka and his wife, Sandra, of Kulpmont; her godson, Raymond Zalewski, of Shamokin; a special nephew, Jack Szyprowski, of West Chester; nieces, nephews and cousins; and her rescue poodle, Princess, whom she adored.
Connie will be sadly and eternally missed by her fiancé, Chris Embry, of Lancaster.
In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by a brother, John J. Chowka Jr.
BROWN — Constance Ann (Chowka) Brown, 53, of Coatsville. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday at Transfiguration Ukrainian Catholic Church, Shamokin, with the Rev. Mykola Ivanov as celebrant. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery, Coal Township. Viewing will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday and 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Stephen A. Chowka Funeral Home, 114 N. Shamokin St., Shamokin. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Connie's memory to Mostly Mutts, 284 Little Mountain Road, Sunbury 17801.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Constance Brown
Beth
February 3, 2024
Still miss hanging out with you . I Enjoyed when we go to West Chester and listen to bands. Or go to Turks Head & Restaurant Festival.
Melanie ~ Sister
February 4, 2022
~ Dearest Connie ~
Time does heal some of the pain we bear, through the sudden loss of Connie in our lives. Thankfully, we are blessed to have the lasting, smiling memories of her unique and joyful impact on ALL of our lives......
Covid concerns prevented my hopes to gather friends together in-person last year, being the 5 year milestone. Hope to schedule a luncheon this spring, 2022 at my Chester Springs, Pa home.
Welcoming you to reach-out and connect via email. Please do share with any others who might not be on Legacy and might also wish to join together!
[email protected]
God Bless!
Melanie
February 4, 2021
.... While 5 years have past, I’m left with countless fond and heartfelt memories that will long endure.
“ CONNIE “
A wonderful, adventurous Sister who shared her BEST to countless people + animals along-the-way! Her ever-caring, motherly spirit shown numerous ways. This treasured photo of Great Aunt Connie and sweet baby KAHLEY.... Connie would generously drive-out 45 miles to lend some baby-sitting help, on her day-off from nursing.....
Connie so adored her large family, friend/work network from the smallest infants to the oldest.... This being 1 of my favorite, sweet photo memories to share with others who equally miss and loved Connie.
God Bless ALL - Melanie
Nancy Sloane
February 4, 2021
Connie was such a loving, kind , compassionate and caring nurse and is missed by many. She touched so many people with her beautiful heart. She will never be forgotten.
Jean Ann McCloskey
February 3, 2021
it is hard to believe that 5 years have passed. Thoughts and prayers to the family on this anniversary. I will never forget Connie and her kind and loving ways. May her memory be a blessing .
Lisa Gannon
February 3, 2021
Connie was an amazing person. Prayers be with all the family. I pray everyone is at peace. Connie will always remain in my heart and I will always cherish our memories and good times we shared at Our Lady Of Lourdes!! Peace to all of her family!!❤❤
November 1, 2016
Dearest Connie,
I know you are in Heaven now and I think of you often. I thought of you as you would have celebrated your birthday last Saturday. May you celebrate with the angels and pray for me.
Mare & Bill
June 18, 2016
Connie was a friend and neighbor. Her spirit always light and generous.
We will sorely miss seeing her drive by with Princess "at the wheel".
Keri Freshour
March 10, 2016
Connie was part of our chiropractic family. She will be missed by myself and the rest of the staff. I was fortunate to have provided her with Chiropractic care over the past few years and enjoyed our exchanges on each visit. She had a kind heart and always kept me posted about her precious dog Princess. May you rest in peace Connie.
Dr. Keri Freshour
Jean Ann McCloskey
February 23, 2016
I worked with Connie throughout her years at SJVC and I will always remember her beautiful smile and giving heart. Since I worked a reduced schedule I did not see Connie often but when I did she was a pleasure to work with and we would catch up on what was going on in our lives. I worked a shift for her one New Years Eve and she was so appreciative that she gave me a beautiful candle. A little gift or a kind word, be it written or spoken was Connie's way. I will miss her.
My sincere and heartfelt condolences to the Chowka family and Chris.
Nancy Sloane
February 19, 2016
I'm so sorry to hear of Connie's passing. I worked with Connie several years ago at SJVC, where Connie always welcomed everyone with her cheerful smile. Connie was a very kind and compassionate caring Nurse and person with a wonderful sense of humor. Connie often spoke of her nephew, little Jack, and Princess her pet Poodle. I remember one time when Princess was sick and Connie was concerned about her being home alone. One of the patients jokingly suggested she send Princess an email and picture of herself, which gave us a chuckle. Connie had a strong faith and would occasionally say PTL (praise the Lord) when something positive would happen. Connie touched many lives and will be greatly missed. With Sincere Sympathy to her Mom, sisters and brother whom she loved and often spoke of.
11-7 Nursing staff
February 18, 2016
Connie, we miss seeing you at change of shift on North 1 - you were so kind and helpful to all of us as we all worked together to provide good care to our residents. You oriented many of us and we all appreciate that you were an excellent nurse. God Bless.
From your co workers on the night shift!
Diane (Helfrick) Cooper
February 17, 2016
To Mary and the rest of the Chowka family and friends, I was very saddened to hear of Connie's passing. She was a great friend throughout grade school and high school. Her smile and sense of humor will be missing by many. My condolences.
February 14, 2016
Dearest Sister Connie,
You are with Jesus now. We gain inner strength knowing you were a faithful member of Thorndale United Methodist Church.
Peace and eternal love are sent to you today, Valentine's Day.....
Melanie Henricks
Edward O'Dell
February 14, 2016
I was fortunate enough to meet Connie and work with her over the past few years at Saint John Vianney. She was always pleasant and was willing to assist in any way she could. I will miss her bright smile and wave from behind the glass at the nurses station each night as I leave the building. She will be sadly missed by all physicians, staff and patients at SJV. My heart felt condolences to all of Connie's family and close friends.Dr. Ed O'Dell
Karen and Puppy Cox
February 13, 2016
Connie was such a dear friend and coworker. She gifted me with a small orchid upon my employ at SJVC with one bloom. Every year added another bloom, and I look forward to 4 blooms this Spring. Connie would laugh when she came in my office and say "You still have that thing!" I look at that orchid every day as it graces my office window and smile when I think of her. The last thing...and the thing she did almost every day we worked together was to run out of the Nurses Station when she saw I was leaving and up to Puppy (our Service Dog), clean the eye goop out of his eyes, kiss him on the head, and said "I Love you". Connie always made time for her patients, co-workers, and especially the animal kingdom at SJVC. Birds, cats, groundhogs, insects, rabbits, deer, our three Therapy Dogs, and even the skunks that Puppy would encounter from time to time. She was the only one who would help clean the stink off of him after being sprayed! Connie you will be missed.
February 12, 2016
You are loved very much.
Lauralee Spatzer-Beall
February 12, 2016
To the Chowka Family, I was very sadden to hear of Connie's passing. My thoughts & prayers go out to you Mrs. Chowka, Steve, and Mary and the rest of the Chowka family. I have very fond memories with Connie. From Grade school through High School. She will be sadly missed.
Julie Werkheiser
February 11, 2016
Dear Chowka family, I am so, so saddened to hear of Connie's passing. Our friendship began many years ago at Lehigh Valley Hospital. We shared so many good times together. Memories of which I will always treasure. My deepest sympathy to you and yours.
Cathy Fryberger [Bendas]
February 11, 2016
Dearest Chowka Family, I was so sorry to hear of Connie's passing. Connie and I were ver close friends when we were younger and went to school at Transfiguration together. My deepest condolences the entire family for you great loss of Connie... You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Donna Miller Picarelli
February 11, 2016
Dear Mary and family, I am so sorry to hear of Connie's passing. She was a funny, witty girl in high school. I enjoyed her sense of humor and knew she would be an asset to society. It was wonderful to know her for a short time then to not know her at all. Hugs to you Mary. I miss you. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Rosie Demsko Mayer
February 11, 2016
Mrs Chowka and family, words can not express the shock and saddness at your loss. Our families go back in time through so much. I wish I could help you all through your heartache as you all have helped us in the past. Just know you are all in our thoughts, heart's , and prayers!
Ginger Holko
February 11, 2016
So sad to hear of Connie's passing. I remember her fondly as a compassionate and caring nurse during the time we worked together at Lehigh Valley. There is one more star in the heavens tonight.
February 11, 2016
Dear Chowka family,
I was saddened to hear about Connie's passing. I remember her growing up as a sweet girl with a beautiful smile. You are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. May God comfort you at this time.
Deepest Sympathy,
Rose (Gratti) Stone
Deb Klusman
February 11, 2016
I am so very saddened to hear of Connie's passing. She was a dear friend of mine in nursing school. We shared so many happy memories together and we got to talk about them several years ago and reconnect at our nursing school reunion. My prayers and deepest sympathies go out to all of Connie's family and friends. The world was so much brighter with Connie in it. RIP my friend, Love, Deb Klusman
Linda Dormer-Kazar
February 11, 2016
I am so heartbroken over the loss of Connie. Both her and Mary were very good friends in our high school years.
Connie had the ability to make everyone laugh. She was a beautiful person inside and out. We had so many good times together. Rest in peace old friend.
Mary, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
February 11, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers to the Chowka family and for your dear sister Constance. God Bless.
Marie and Dave Philips
Dave Yesenofski
February 11, 2016
Very sad to hear of Connie's passing. My condolences to the Chowka family.
Lorraine Schadt
February 11, 2016
I am a friend of Lori Yesenofski and I knew Connie through her. We vacationed together at the Jersey shore in our younger days and I also spent time with Connie at several parties at Lori's house. Connie was a gem. I felt like I knew her my whole life. She was honest, kind, genuine and had a great sense of subtle humor. She felt things intensely and shared herself freely as lifelong girlfriends do even through we only knew each other briefly.
The obituary is beautiful and my heartfelt condolences go out to all Connie's family and friends. I thanks God for giving us Connie to share for a while in our journey on this earth. Much love to all in this very sad time. -Lorraine Schadt, Bethlehem, PA
Christina Krepshaw
February 11, 2016
I am very heartbroken over Connie's death. my thoughts now are for Mary and her mother. I know how much she cared about her whole family very much and I my love and prayers go to all of them. She was the best friend anyone could have. I will miss her.
Susie Feese (Demsko)
February 11, 2016
Dear Chowka Family,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Connie. God bless and be with all of you during this sad time. Sending thoughts of love and prayers for peace to you all.
Marie (Yanalavage) Black
February 11, 2016
I'm so sorry to hear of Connie's passing. She always had the brightest smile. She was a friend of my sister Lori Yesenofski. My condolences to your family. I am praying that the Lord will comfort you at this time.
Lisa Puceta (Gannon)
February 10, 2016
I am so sorry to hear of this sad news of Connie passing. My prayers are with you. Seems like only yesterday we graduated from Our Lady of Lourdes. Mary I miss you and peace be with you and your family.
Lori Yesenofski
February 10, 2016
Deeply saddened and heartbroken at the loss of a very dear friend. Connie had a kind heart and a beautiful soul. Heaven has gained a lovely nurse angel. I will treasure forever the memories and joy she brought to my life. Deepest sympathies to the Chowka family.Rest in peace, sweet friend.
Ann Blugis Cooke
February 10, 2016
Dear Mary ,I was heartbroken when I heard about the loss of Connie. She was a beautiful person inside and out. I have the best memories of her from our high school years at OLOL. Connie always made me laugh and smile. I know she must have been an incredible nurse who had an impact on countless people. My heartfelt sympathy to you and your entire family. The special bond you share with Connie was evident and lovely to see. The world is minus a beautiful soul. Love and sympathy, Ann Blugis Cooke
Walter and Kate Wachter
February 10, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Chowka family at this difficult time. May you find peace and comfort knowing Connie is in a better place. Donna, Mara and Lauren, I know how heart broken you must be, sending you love and hugs.
Michelle C
February 10, 2016
Constance i will always missed you,you treated and love me like a little, i will always carry you in my forever,i pray the almighty God strengthen and comfort your family as they go through this bereavement time in Jesus name amen.
Mary McDermott
February 10, 2016
To all of Connie's family and friends, I wanted you to know she was a great influence in getting me back to better health. I was very sick at St. John ' s physically.
If she had not been so patient with me. I don't know how I would ever had made it to this point in my life.
She is forever in my heart.
You,now will be forever in my prayers.
Mary M.
Ray Zalewski
February 10, 2016
Mary and Family, I am sorry to hear about your sister's untimely passing.
Barb Smith
February 10, 2016
Dear Mrs. Sofia Chowka and family,
Our mutual friend, Gerry Bushick phoned me this morning her in Ohio, to share the devastatingly sad news of the untimely passing of your beloved Connie.
I feel cheated to never have had the pleasure of meeting Connie and only hope that my mother, Marie Young would have been so fortunate, knowing, I'm certain, that Connie must have been as kind as all her siblings thanks to the upbringing of such fine and devoted parents. It is heartwarming to learn that Connie's love for animals was so passionate. She was truly a Princess of Pets.
Steve, as we know the greatest stinging pain a mother and father are faced to endure, is that of the loss of their child. Our hearts and prayers are with your elegant and grieving mother, Sofia.
Steve, you as Connie's only brother have the unwelcomed yet extreme honor of guiding the steps with the support of your six sisters, in creating Connie's final farewell as dignified and respectful as only you can, as she is warmly remembered at Mass, and then laid to rest near your father, in our Transfiguration UKY Cemetery.
Dear Joanna, although husband Bob and I, here in Oberlin, are unable to be there to embrace you tightly in person, as a demonstration of the outpouring of love you always offered my mother, please be comforted in knowing that dear Gerry will indeed be with your family during the celebration of Connie's life.
God Bless the entire Chowka family, including Connie's beloved Chris, during this most difficult time.
VICHNAYA PAMYAT, REST ETERNAL, Connie!
Barb& Bob Smith
Gerry Bushick
Barb & Bob Smith
February 10, 2016
Dear Mrs. Sofia Chowka and family,
Our mutual friend, Gerry Bushick phoned me this morning her in Ohio, to share the devastatingly sad news of the untimely passing of your beloved,Connie.
I feel cheated to never have had the pleasure of meeting Connie and only hope that my mother, Marie Young would have been so fortunate, knowing, I'm certain, that Connie must have been as kind as all her siblings thanks to the upbringing of such fine and devoted parents. It is heartwarming to learn that Connie's love for animals was so passionate. She was truly a Princess of Pets.
Steve, as we know the greatest stinging pain a mother and father are faced to endure, is that of the loss of their child. Our hearts and prayers are with your elegant and grieving mother, Sofia.
Steve, you as Connie's only brother have the unwelcomed yet extreme honor of guiding the steps with the support of your six sisters, in creating Connie's final farewell as dignified and respectful as only you can, as she is warmly remembered at Mass, and then laid to rest near your father, in our Transfiguration UKY Cemetery.
Dear Joanna, although husband Bob and I, here in Oberlin, are unable to be there to embrace you tightly in person, as a demonstration of the outpouring of love you always offered my mother, please be comforted in knowing that dear Gerry will indeed be with your family during the celebration of Connie's life.
God Bless the entire Chowka family, including Connie's beloved Chris, during this most difficult time.
VICHNAYA PAMYAT, REST ETERNAL, Connie!
Barb& Bob Smith
Gerry Bushick
Frank and Kim Nicolazzo
February 10, 2016
Our prayers to Chris and all of Connie's family. She is missed. Frank and Kim Nicolazzo
February 10, 2016
Mary & family,
I am so sorry to hear of Connie's passing. She was beautiful inside and out! I'm sure your hearts are aching. May she rest in peace. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Chris Marchetti Emerick
Julio Spallone
February 10, 2016
Dear Mrs. Chowka, Steve and Family,
I remember Connie, from several years ago, when I had the pleasure of working on her car.
She, as the rest of your family, was always kind and outgoing.
My sincere condolences for your loss.
Sincerely,
Julio
Lisa Ahrens
February 10, 2016
Juliet, may you, your family and all who loved your sister find peace and comfort in this tragic and difficult time. Her obituary is a beautiful tribute to this wonderful and caring soul.
Kim Nicolazzo
February 10, 2016
Connie and I met at church and became friends. We would sit together and have coffee or bagels after church sometimes. She loved coffee! We walked and talked one time for a couple hours on the Struble trail. We didn't realize how far we went. She had a big heart and was kind to everyone. She had a lot of empathy for people. She was a great nurse and friend. I miss you. Love, Kim Nicolazzo
Mark Moore
February 10, 2016
On behalf of the congregation of Thorndale Church, my wife Karen, and myself, I express my deepest sympathies to the family of Connie. She was a dearly beloved member of our church. She would always walk up to me and give me a big hug, flash that beautiful smile, and we would chat. We will all miss her dearly. Connie, may you find eternal peace now in the arms of our Savior. Save us seats at the banquet.
Juliet Szyprowski
February 10, 2016
I love you Connie! Thank you for helping and supporting me and Jack so much over the years! Thank you for loving Jack as you did! You will always be beautiful, loving, kind, generous, and compassionate and you are our Guardian Angel and we will love Princess as you did, my Dear Sister. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of heaven and I know you will!!
Judith Urick
February 10, 2016
My deepest sympathy to the entire Chowka family. I will keep you all in my prayers. God bless.
Beth Barnes
February 9, 2016
I am so sorry to hear of Connie's pasting. I couldn't believe it when I got the e-mail .But I will remember all the nice times I had with Connie over the years. Connie and I would go out and listen to my friend Chris band play at local bars in the Downingtown & West Chester area. In the past we went to the movies a couple of times. Connie did the Chester County Walk for Paws at Hibernia Park with me a couple of times. Infact Connie walked my dog Maddie.When my family went to Disney World about 4 years ago Connie helped take care of our dogs. I will miss seeing Connie in church. And I will miss her pretty smile. But I'm sure she is at peace now.
Kim and Ken Kramer
February 9, 2016
Dearest Connie, I will miss your caring smile. I have known you for over 20 years as our paths journeyed thru our nursing career. I have seen such a caring even keeled nurse and friend as we chatted. I pray for your family that stay behind. Blessings, Kim
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